A new breed of butlers

I feel it is time to take the profession of butler forward. Mr Spencer broke new ground in the eighties by starting the first ever butler school. Since the profession was learned in the old days from father to son or on the estate itself, there was not really a platform to train this profession. 

Mr Spencer drafted the first ever curriculum and with his own style led his students to a new life. In essence that does not differ that much of what we do now in 2017 at School for Butlers and Hospitality.

Nevertheless, times have changed. Technology is all around us, principals are more demanding and the butler has to be world savvy.

The gentleman servant

There are gentleman spies, gentleman thieves and then you have us. The butlers. We provide a service with flair, anticipation and a sense for service at a high level, as well as a consistent level.

In short we could say that the 21st century butler needs panache. Well dressed, articulate and always one step ahead. Our butlers like a designer watch around their wrist but with the needed discretion and within reason.

I like to see our butlers as Kingsman. People of the world. Knowing how to get around, travel and have connections in all the right places.


Standing out

Talking to many people who have met and worked with Mr Spencer, I feel that his spirit is still around. Reading his book, you quickly realise he was a toastmaster at heart. Making people feel comfortable at events or moments in their lives that are epic.

With a few of his character trades you can really stand out these days:

1) his personal presentation was always impeccable
2) he chose his words very carefully and had tailor made sentences to answer anyone in any situation with flair and consideration
3) he was an ambassador of the word 'butler' and build a network of people that did the same

I firmly believe that anyone who can combine these values with modern style can become a great butler.

At your service,

Vincent Vermeulen
Managing director School for Butlers and Hospitality

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